The Milam County Emergency Operation Center (EOC) was activated and Milam Count y Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) conducted an emergency exercise with other units throughout the state, she said.

“The exercise was based on the simulated loss of cell phones, satellite communications and internet services,” she said.

Reinders said voice and digital nets were established to prove the ability to pass lengthy messages between local, regional and state agencies.

A high frequency radio net was established w ith a temporary 25-foot antenna erected on t he cour t house law n.

Reinders said a communication team from Williamson County was on hand to support and coordinate the exercise and to train Milam County ARES members.

“The use of amateur radio and the capability of transferring lengthy messages via digital were in demand,” she said.

Reinders termed the exercise “successful” with messages being passed up to the State Operations Center (SOC) and acknowledged with response back to the Milam County EOC.